Report: iPhone Took Share From Android In All Markets But Japan

Fourth quarter data from Kantar Worldpanel ComTech asserts that the iPhone’s market share has grown across key markets, including the US, China and EU 5. In most markets measured Android was down and Windows phone was flat.

Kantar reported that Android’s market share declined in the US and Europe by nearly 4 points year over year. Apple’s share rose by a corresponding amount in the US and a substantial 6 points across the EU 5. In the UK it grew by 13 percent year over year. Only in Japan did Android’s share grow — but by a whopping 8 points — vs. the same period a year ago.

The firm says its smartphone data are from “the largest continuous consumer research/mobile phone tracking panel of its kind in the world.”

Source: Kantar Worldpanel ComTech

During the recent Apple earnings call CEO Tim Cook said that the iPhone 6 was causing Android users to switch:

But I would also point out that we had the highest number of customers new to iPhone last quarter than in any prior launch. And also that the current iPhone line up experienced the highest Android switcher rate in any of the last three launches in the three previous years.

Third party data argue that most of those switchers are coming from international markets. Kantar’s data appear to support that assertion, while showing share shift in the US as well.

Stung by weakening sales and competition from the top and the bottom, Samsung is preparing to launch its next “flagship” device, the Galaxy S6. According to reports based on leaked images its design appears to duplicate the iPhone 6, complete with an Apple Pay like payment service.

About The Author

Greg Sterling is a Contributing Editor at Search Engine Land. He writes a personal blog, Screenwerk, about connecting the dots between digital media and real-world consumer behavior. He is also VP of Strategy and Insights for the Local Search Association. Follow him on Twitter or find him at Google+.